A Nigerian Army colonel, Abdussalam Ude, was killed on Monday evening after gunmen stormed his residence in the Kurudu District of Abuja. The attackers, who had intended to abduct him, opened fire when he resisted, leaving the officer dead and three others seriously wounded.
Details of the Attack
Colonel Ude had just arrived home when the assailants struck. Security sources cited by PRNigeria said the gunmen initially sought to take him captive. “He resisted them. From what investigators have gathered, they wanted to take him away, but he fought back. Unfortunately, he paid the ultimate price,” a source close to the preliminary investigation told PRNigeria.
Unable to abduct the colonel, the attackers shot him multiple times before fleeing the scene. His wife, driver, and security guard all sustained gunshot wounds. They were rushed to a hospital in Abuja, where they are currently receiving treatment for injuries of varying severity. The condition of the victims has not been officially disclosed, but sources described them as stable.
Colonel Ude’s Military Career
Colonel Ude was a native of Enugu State and had a distinguished career in intelligence and counter-terrorism within the Nigerian Armed Forces. He served in multiple operations against insurgents in the North East and was deployed on international assignments in Chad and France, contributing to intelligence and security cooperation. Colleagues described him as a courageous and well-respected officer whose commitment to service earned him broad admiration across the military. At the time of his death, he was on course for promotion to the rank of Brigadier General.
His funeral will be held at the Mambilla Mosque in Abuja in accordance with Islamic rites.
Security Response and Manhunt
Security agencies have launched a full investigation and are actively searching for the perpetrators. The attack has heightened concerns about the safety of serving and retired military officers in Abuja, particularly those who have held sensitive intelligence and operational positions.
Growing Concerns for Military Officers
The killing of Colonel Ude echoes a similar incident roughly two years ago, when retired Brigadier General Uwem Harold Udokwere was killed after armed men broke into his home in the Lokogoma area of Abuja. Udokwere was defending his family when he was shot; the attackers stole his firearm and other valuables before escaping. That case remains unresolved, and the latest murder has intensified calls for better protection of military personnel.
Security sources say they are following several leads and have assured the public that efforts are being made to bring the culprits to justice. The Nigerian Army has not yet issued an official statement, but military authorities are said to be cooperating with the police and other agencies in the manhunt.
